Botia Macrachata (Clown Loach) 2″-3″3

The Botia Macrachata (Clown Loach) now commonly referred to as Chromobotia macracanthus, is a popular freshwater fish in the aquarium trade. It’s native to the rivers and streams of Indonesia, particularly in Sumatra and Borneo. Here’s a brief overview of the species:

• Appearance: Clown Loaches are known for their striking orange/yellow bodies with bold black stripes that resemble a clown’s costume, hence the name. Their bodies are long and torpedo-shaped, and they have a forked tail. Juveniles display brighter colors, while adults may become slightly duller with age.
• Size: While many in captivity remain around 6-8 inches (15-20 cm), Clown Loaches can grow to over 12 inches (30 cm) in the wild, and they can live for 10 to 20 years under proper care.
• Behavior: They are peaceful and active schooling fish, often seen swimming together. In captivity, they do best when kept in groups of at least 5 to 6 fish, as they can become stressed or shy when alone.
• Habitat Requirements:
  • Tank Size: Due to their potential size, they need a large tank, typically 75 gallons (about 285 liters) or larger.
  • Water Parameters: They prefer soft, slightly acidic water, with a temperature range of 75-86°F (24-30°C), and pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
  • Tank Setup: Clown Loaches enjoy hiding places like caves, driftwood, and dense plants. They are also known to dig, so a sandy substrate is recommended.
• Diet: They are omnivorous and enjoy a varied diet. In captivity, they can be fed high-quality sinking pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and vegetables like cucumber or zucchini.

Clown Loaches are playful and often exhibit unique behaviors, such as laying on their sides, which can alarm novice keepers, but this is normal for them. They are also known to click or make noises when eating or during interactions with other loaches.